Toronto launches public consultation on casinos

Casino companies, lobbyists and politicians have had their say. Now, Torontonians are being asked if they want to host a casino and, if so, where.

The city launched its public consultation process Friday, announcing a website, www.toronto.ca/casinoconsultation, an online survey and five open houses to be held across Toronto in January.

The consultation will “gather input, including the public’s views and opinions on a casino generally, on possible locations for a casino, and what the public would like council to consider when making a decision on this matter,” a news release states.

“The consultation plan encourages public learning and discussion by providing clear information and questions as well as opportunities to participate online and in person.”

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp.’s “modernization” plan includes one new privately built casino in the GTA. Possible locations are Toronto, Mississauga, Markham or Richmond Hill.

The idea of a downtown Toronto casino has sparked furious debate. OLG has said it won’t force one an unwilling community. Toronto council is likely to vote on whether to put out the welcome mat in March or April.

The open houses, at which people can talk to city staff, join discussion groups and offer feedback are:

Downtown councillors on the Toronto and East York Community Council will hold their own meeting to get casino feedback on Jan. 11 at City Hall.

City manager Joe Pennachetti will consider the feedback while writing his report, expected to go to Mayor Rob Ford’s executive committee in March.

A city report in October, based on a study by consultants Ernst & Young, touted a downtown Toronto casino as a jackpot in terms of revenue and jobs.

The report — suggesting a downtown casino-resort could earn the city more than $200 million a year in hosting fees, property taxes and lease or land sale revenues — forms the basis of discussion in the consultation material.

However, critics, including Councillor Adam Vaughan, criticized the report as being superficial and wildly optimistic in its revenue projections.

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